US Cities Preparing for Electric Car Arrival
Electric vehicles are coming to the US in late 2010. Cities like San Francisco are preparing by installing federally-funded charging stations and bolstering neighborhood power grids where early adopters live. Getting home stations installed and implementing controlled recharging standards and technology are key to early success for those that can afford electric vehicles.
Used Vehicle Prices Remain High on Low Supply
Even though economic factors have lowered used vehicle demand, supply has been constrained even more causing prices to rise. Dealers are now careful with their inventory and even franchised dealers are relying more on used vehicle sales.
Oil, Gas Billionaire Pickens Seeking CNG Truck Tax Credits
The rising cost of oil requires US energy independence. Oil and gas billionaire T. Boone Pickens is promoting a $65K tax credit for compressed natural gas trucks to establish a refueling infrastructure network.
Experian Says Ford, Hyundai Brand Loyalty Increasing
Experian's brand loyalty analysis for 3rd quarter 2009 shows Ford and Hyundai with growing numbers. The Toyota Venza was rated the overall No. 1 vehicle for brand loyalty. Toyota's Prius and Camry were also in the Top 10. In corporate loyalty, Toyota is ranked first followed by GM and Ford.
Pickens’ Plan to Convert Heavy Trucks to Natural Gas
T. Boone Pickens was a keynote speaker at the NADA convention, where he laid out his sustainability and energy conservation vision. Part of this plan is to convert half the 18-wheelers on America's roads over to natural gas-powered vehicles. He predicted this would reduce half the oil imported into the country.
